TOMS RIVER, NJ — June 7, 2026 A wave of love and support is growing across Ocean County after longtime local teacher and coach Joey Iorio was unexpectedly diagnosed with leukemia late last month. His fiancée, Danielle, has launched a GoFundMe to help Joey and their family navigate the long and difficult road ahead.

The fundraiser, titled “Support Joey’s Leukemia Journey,” can be found here: 👉 https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-joeys-leukemia-journey

A Life-Changing Diagnosis

On April 24, 2026, Danielle and Joey received news no family ever expects to hear: Joey had leukemia. The diagnosis came suddenly, turning their world upside down in a matter of hours.

Joey was immediately admitted to the hospital, where he remains under the care of a dedicated medical team. He has already completed his first round of chemotherapy — three separate treatments within seven days — and is now awaiting repeat biopsy results to determine the next steps in his treatment plan.

Doctors expect Joey will remain hospitalized for several more weeks, followed by extensive outpatient visits once he is discharged. He will be out of work until at least September.

A Teacher, Coach, and Mentor Loved by Many

To those who know him, Joey is far more than a patient fighting cancer — he is a bright light in the community.

A beloved teacher, Joey has spent years helping students succeed both inside and outside the classroom. Whether he’s guiding a struggling student through a tough assignment, offering a listening ear on a hard day, or celebrating a young person’s achievements, Joey is known for going above and beyond.

He also coaches baseball at the local high school, dedicating countless hours after school to help his players grow, improve, and believe in themselves. Many say he is the kind of coach who stays late, shows up early, and never hesitates to give extra time to a kid who wants to get better.

“He is one of a kind,” Danielle shared. “The most genuine, sweetest, funniest, and caring person I know. He brightens anyone’s day and any room he walks into.”

Students, colleagues, friends, and families across the district echo the same sentiment: Joey makes an impact wherever he goes.

A Fiancée’s Love and a Community’s Strength

Danielle created the GoFundMe not only to help with medical expenses and the months of lost income ahead, but also to take one burden off Joey’s shoulders during a time when his only focus should be healing.

“Joey never asks for anything,” she wrote. “He is always the one giving to others. I am creating this for him so it’s one less thing he has to worry about during this difficult time.”

Doctors have prepared the couple for a long road ahead — but Danielle says they are ready to face it together, strengthened by the outpouring of support from the community.

How to Help

The GoFundMe is accepting donations of any size, and Danielle emphasizes that no amount is too small. Every contribution helps Joey continue his fight with fewer financial worries and more room to focus on recovery.

Those wishing to support Joey and Danielle can visit the fundraiser here: 👉 https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-joeys-leukemia-journey

As the community rallies behind them, one message is clear: Joey has spent years lifting others up — now it’s time for everyone to lift him.